Forearm Fractures

Forearm fractures are the most common fractures in children and often occur from falls during play or sports. Because children's bones are still growing, most forearm fractures heal successfully without surgery. Treatment focuses on supporting the bone while it heals and monitoring the fracture to ensure it remains in good alignment. 

Most forearm fractures can be treated with: 

• A splint or cast to protect the injury and allow healing. 

• Regular follow-up visits to monitor healing progress. 

• Weekly X-rays during the first few weeks if the fracture alignment needs close observation. 

Additional treatment may include: 

• Reduction (repositioning the bone without surgery) if the fracture is not well aligned. 

• Surgery is uncommon but may be recommended in certain cases. 

Type of cast may vary based on the fracture location: 

• Fractures in the middle of the forearm or near the elbow are often treated with a long-arm cast. 

• Some children may transition to a shorter cast as healing progresses. 

Growth plate fractures: 

• Fractures near a growth plate have a strong ability to remodel, meaning the bone can gradually reshape itself into a more normal alignment as the child grows.